Recently my daughter completed her first half-marathon. A half marathon is 13.1 miles and includes numerous hills. Now you should understand that Jennifer is not a runner. Let me explain.
When Jennifer first told me what she had planned, I was very skeptical. I questioned her about it but she seemed to be very committed. She told me she was working with a trainer and she was sure she could do it. All she asked was that I attend the marathon and of course I said yes.
When we arrived she was extremely excited. Again I questioned her a little. I asked her how long the run might last. She said well dad they told me they turn off the clock at 3 hours. Being kind of slow I asked how long she thought she would take. She said, well probably around 3 hours dad because I've never actually completed 13.1 miles. She said the most she had completed was 8 miles. The look on my face must have given away my thoughts because she immediately said; "don't worry dad, I'll do it".
There were 1200 runners registered and at the two mile marker I don't think there were 10 people behind Jen. I was concerned but my wife and I both smiled and encouraged her. Then we walked back toward the finish line and waited. We had no idea how long we might wait.
Officially Jennifer finished 853rd at 2 hours and 29 minutes. Yes, there were many runners who finished behind her but I didn't care about that. I asked her "how did you do it?" She replied "I just wasn't going to fail". I was extremely proud of her. What a lesson she taught me.
Have you ever heard someone say they plan to start a diet?
Have you ever heard someone tell you they plan to quit smoking?
Society provides so many reasons why we can't do something. I think maybe Nike said it best.
Stop thinking about why you can't do something and "Just Do It".
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